Advances in clinical diagnosis and management of amelogenesis imperfecta in children and adolescents

Abstract

Objective: To summarize studies published between 2017 and 2023 examining the clinical diagnosis and restorative management of amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) in children and adolescents.

Data: The review incorporated publications on clinical diagnosis, patient-reported outcomes, clinical trials, cohort studies, and case reports that included individuals below 19 years of age with non-syndromic AI.

Sources: A literature search was conducted across electronic databases, PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL, including papers published between 2017 and 2023. The search yielded 335 unique results, of which 38 were eligible for inclusion.

Results: New evidence on the genetic background of AI makes it now advisable to recommend genetic testing to supplement a clinical AI diagnosis. The discussions of the dental profession and the public on social media do not always incorporate recent scientific evidence. Interview studies are finding that the impact of AI on quality of life is more severe than previously appreciated. New evidence suggests that single-tooth ceramic crowns should be the first choice of treatment. Due to incomplete reporting, case reports have been of limited value.

Conclusion: In young patients with AI symptoms of pain and hypersensitivity decreased, and aesthetics were improved following all types of restorative therapy. Resin composite restorations were mainly performed in cases with hypoplastic AI and mild symptoms. Single tooth ceramic crown restorations have a high success rate in all types of AI and can be used in young individuals with AI.

Clinical significance: Prosthetic rehabilitation in adolescents with severe AI is cost effective, improves esthetics, reduces tooth sensitivity, and improves oral health-related quality of life.

Keywords: Ceramic crowns; Enamel; Genetic testing; Quality of life; Resin composite; Social media.